ColumbusvsZula

Columbus and Zula are popular dual purpose hops. Below you'll find a comparison of alpha and beta acids, aroma profiles and oil composition.

Columbus

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

14–18%

Beta acid

4.5–6%

Total oil

2.5–4.5 mL

United States

Zula

Dual purpose

Alpha acid

8–14%

Beta acid

3.8–7%

Total oil

1.1–2 mL

Poland

Key differences

When to pick Columbus

  • Higher alpha acid - stronger bittering
  • More essential oils - more intense aroma
  • Richer, more complex aroma profile

When to pick Zula

No clear differences - both varieties have a similar profile. Choose based on availability or country of origin.

Aroma profile and use

Shared aromas

Citrus

Only in Columbus

EarthyBlack currantLicoriceCurrySpicyFloralPungentDankCannabis

Only in Zula

CleanTropicalFruity

Property

PropertyColumbusZula
Alpha acid14–18%8–14%
Beta acid4.5–6%3.8–7%
Co-humulone28–35%30%
Total oil2.5–4.5 mL1.1–2 mL
Myrcene45–55%-
Humulene9–14%-
Caryophyllene6–10%-
Farnesene0–1%-
OriginUnited StatesPoland
PurposeDual purposeDual purpose

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